-Júnior 12 Rutter 61
Chambers 90
Chambers 90
Tactics
•46m Ampadu to CB, Byram on at RCB (Leeds) •62m Asare to RCB,
Taylor on at RWB (Harrogate) •76m Gelhardt to IR, Gray on at CF
(Leeds) •85m Gnonto to RWB, Thomas on at LWB, Chambers on at CM
(Leeds)
Captains Burrell captain for Harrogate after their mass substitutions
Captains Burrell captain for Harrogate after their mass substitutions
Nat
Hotel Klosterpforte
(Marienfeld)
(Marienfeld)
-Gruev 7 Piroe 27
Joseph 51, 70
Gindorf 62
Joseph 51, 70
Gindorf 62
Overview
With German police not authorising Leeds to play public
friendlies, this game was held at their training base with
details and video coverage embargoed by both clubs until after
the final whistle. The occasion saw the first appearance of the
much anticipated yellow, smiley badge kit but the last
appearance of Crysencio Summerville.
Tactics •13m Switch to 4-4-2 with back four of Neumann Knight Halstenberg Dehm and Lee Hyun-ju to LM (Hannover) •46m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF (Leeds) •55m Neumann to RCB, Muroya to RB, Momuluh on at RM (Hannover) •63m Rothwell to CAM, Crew on at DM, Debayo on at RCB, Wöber on at LB, Gelhardt on at RW (Leeds) •67m Gindorf to CM, Ndikom on at LM (Hannover) •71m Momuluh to RB, Ndikom to RM, Oudenne on at LM (Hannover) •76m Neumann to LCB, Uhlmann on at RCB (Hannover) •85m Rothwell to DM, Gray on at CAM (Leeds) •88m Ezeh to LCB, Matsuda on at LB (Hannover)
Captains Replacement captains were Struijk for Leeds, Neumann and later Nielsen for Hannover
Trivia •Although Stefan Leitl was present and named on the teamsheet, the Hannover 96 website stated that assistant Lars Barlemann was in charge as part of his Pro Licence training •The training pitch used had no quadrants marked in the corners
Tactics •13m Switch to 4-4-2 with back four of Neumann Knight Halstenberg Dehm and Lee Hyun-ju to LM (Hannover) •46m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF (Leeds) •55m Neumann to RCB, Muroya to RB, Momuluh on at RM (Hannover) •63m Rothwell to CAM, Crew on at DM, Debayo on at RCB, Wöber on at LB, Gelhardt on at RW (Leeds) •67m Gindorf to CM, Ndikom on at LM (Hannover) •71m Momuluh to RB, Ndikom to RM, Oudenne on at LM (Hannover) •76m Neumann to LCB, Uhlmann on at RCB (Hannover) •85m Rothwell to DM, Gray on at CAM (Leeds) •88m Ezeh to LCB, Matsuda on at LB (Hannover)
Captains Replacement captains were Struijk for Leeds, Neumann and later Nielsen for Hannover
Trivia •Although Stefan Leitl was present and named on the teamsheet, the Hannover 96 website stated that assistant Lars Barlemann was in charge as part of his Pro Licence training •The training pitch used had no quadrants marked in the corners
Nat
Kümpel + Hellmeister
Arena (Westfalia)
Arena (Westfalia)
-Joseph 57 Piroe 65
Overview
To throw would-be attendees off the scent, the second game
against 2.Bundesliga opposition was staged at a local lower
league venue.
Tactics •46m Switch to 4-4-2 with Gantenbein as an orthodox RB, Sylla Schallenberg Seguin Donkor across midfield, Bachmann joining Karaman in attack (Schalke) •55m Gnonto to LW, Rutter to RW, Piroe on at CAM (Leeds) •72m Piroe to CF, Crew on at CAM (Leeds) •84m Crew to DM, Chambers on at CAM (Leeds)
Interchanges •Gnonto and Aaronson swapped circa 24m-30m following a Schalke corner, then again for the final five minutes of the first half (Leeds)
Captains Struijk captain in the second half for Leeds
Tactics •46m Switch to 4-4-2 with Gantenbein as an orthodox RB, Sylla Schallenberg Seguin Donkor across midfield, Bachmann joining Karaman in attack (Schalke) •55m Gnonto to LW, Rutter to RW, Piroe on at CAM (Leeds) •72m Piroe to CF, Crew on at CAM (Leeds) •84m Crew to DM, Chambers on at CAM (Leeds)
Interchanges •Gnonto and Aaronson swapped circa 24m-30m following a Schalke corner, then again for the final five minutes of the first half (Leeds)
Captains Struijk captain in the second half for Leeds
-Joseph 14 Rutter 41
Tejón 89
Tejón 89
1■■Mir 65
Tactics
•62m Rutter to RW, Piroe on at CAM (Leeds) •62m Vásquez to LB,
Thierry to RB, Almeida on at RM, Tejón on at LM (Valencia) •65m
Adjustment to 4-4-1 after the sending-off with Duro the lone
striker (Valencia) •82m Byram to LB, Debayo on at RB (Leeds)
•88m Debayo to RCB, Chambers on at RB (Leeds)
Captains Replacement captains after substitutions were Meslier (Leeds) and Thierry (Valencia)
Trivia •The two teams combined made six substitutions in the same break of play spanning the 62nd to 64th minutes
Captains Replacement captains after substitutions were Meslier (Leeds) and Thierry (Valencia)
Trivia •The two teams combined made six substitutions in the same break of play spanning the 62nd to 64th minutes
-Struijk 10p Gnonto
46
Aaronson 90+5
Sørensen 23
Lang 41, 90+2p
Aaronson 90+5
Sørensen 23
Lang 41, 90+2p
•●Struijk
10
•●Lang
90+2
Overview
Leeds started the season in typically breathless fashion. It
began with them hitting the crossbar three times in as many
minutes before Struijk finally opened the scoring from the spot.
Pompey then fought back to lead by half-time, completely against
the run of play, and edged ahead again at 3-2 following a 92nd
minute penalty. Still there was time for Aaronson to squeeze
home a dramatic leveller but the returning loanee spoiled his
redemption somewhat, by missing an easier chance moments later.
Tactics •70m Lane to LW, Devlin to RW (Portsmouth) •71m Rutter to RW, Piroe on at CAM (Leeds)
Interchanges •19m Bogle found himself covering on the left after an attacking corner so Júnior was obliged to move temporarily to right-back; curiously they did not revert when a free-kick award quickly gave them the opportunity to do so, instead waiting until a free-kick against 90 seconds later (Leeds)
Tactics •70m Lane to LW, Devlin to RW (Portsmouth) •71m Rutter to RW, Piroe on at CAM (Leeds)
Interchanges •19m Bogle found himself covering on the left after an attacking corner so Júnior was obliged to move temporarily to right-back; curiously they did not revert when a free-kick award quickly gave them the opportunity to do so, instead waiting until a free-kick against 90 seconds later (Leeds)
-1st Round
Dijksteel 50 Burgzorg 60
Coburn 67
Dijksteel 50 Burgzorg 60
Coburn 67
Overview
Despite making eight changes, Leeds started brightly but did not
seriously test the Boro keeper again after he had denied Júnior
in the 3rd minute. Gradually the Teesiders took a grip of the
game and capitalised as United imploded in the early part of the
second-half. A miserable evening was compounded by news of
Georginio Rutter's likely departure after Brighton's triggering
of a £40m release clause.
Tactics •63m Switch to 3-4-1-2 with back line of Ampadu Rodon Struijk, Gruev on at DM, Bogle on at RWB, Gnonto on at LWB, Rutter on as a second striker (Leeds)
Captains One old Leeds favourite replaced another as Middlesbrough captain, when Ayling took over from the injured Howson
Tactics •63m Switch to 3-4-1-2 with back line of Ampadu Rodon Struijk, Gruev on at DM, Bogle on at RWB, Gnonto on at LWB, Rutter on as a second striker (Leeds)
Captains One old Leeds favourite replaced another as Middlesbrough captain, when Ayling took over from the injured Howson
Overview
An absolutely turgid game in which each team only registered a
single effort on target, both of which were comfortably saved by
the respective keepers. In the circumstances, a good point on
the road but a performance that underlined the need for some
creativity to replace Summerville and Rutter.
Tactics •64m Gnonto to RW, Aaronson on at LW (Leeds)
Interchanges •48m-52m James and Gnonto swapped over as a result of the positions they took up in defending a West Brom left-wing corner (Leeds)
Tactics •64m Gnonto to RW, Aaronson on at LW (Leeds)
Interchanges •48m-52m James and Gnonto swapped over as a result of the positions they took up in defending a West Brom left-wing corner (Leeds)
-Aaronson 24 James 48
Overview
A dominant performance from Leeds and the relief of a first win
of the season. This was despite their attacking options being
further diminished by the loss of Bamford to a hamstring injury,
while new recruit Largie Ramazani had to watch from the stands
pending his work permit.
Tactics •In possession, Sheffield Wednesday were 4-3-3 with Valentín stepping into midfield and Windass and Musaba advancing in support of Jamal Lowe •70m Switch to 4-4-2, Valery now an orthodox RB, Gassama on at RW, Ugbo on as an additional striker (Sheffield Wednesday) •88m Aaronson to LW, Rothwell on at CAM (Leeds) •90+2m Bogle to RW, Byram on at RB (Leeds)
Trivia •Byram (who did not touch the ball) entered the play ahead of Gelhardt, even though "11|30" was the initial change signalled and Aaronson was off the pitch first (Leeds)
Tactics •In possession, Sheffield Wednesday were 4-3-3 with Valentín stepping into midfield and Windass and Musaba advancing in support of Jamal Lowe •70m Switch to 4-4-2, Valery now an orthodox RB, Gassama on at RW, Ugbo on as an additional striker (Sheffield Wednesday) •88m Aaronson to LW, Rothwell on at CAM (Leeds) •90+2m Bogle to RW, Byram on at RB (Leeds)
Trivia •Byram (who did not touch the ball) entered the play ahead of Gelhardt, even though "11|30" was the initial change signalled and Aaronson was off the pitch first (Leeds)
-Joseph 63 Piroe 82
Overview
Following the closure of the transfer window the previous night,
Leeds had three debutants in this game - including a starting
berth for Manor Solomon. The loanee from Spurs provided the
cross for the crucial opening goal, in a hard-earned derby win.
Tactics •60m Ömür to RCM, Jarvis on at RW (Hull) •75m Aaronson to LW, Piroe on at CAM (Leeds) •78m With Zambrano subbed off, Coyle temporarily stepped into central areas to start the plays when passing out from the back (Hull) •84m Coyle to LB, Drameh on at RB (Hull) •86m Piroe to CF, Rothwell on at CAM (Leeds)
Interchanges •27m-32m Gnonto and Salomon swapped over for a spell bookended by Hull set-pieces; a corner and a free-kick in midfield (Leeds)
Tactics •60m Ömür to RCM, Jarvis on at RW (Hull) •75m Aaronson to LW, Piroe on at CAM (Leeds) •78m With Zambrano subbed off, Coyle temporarily stepped into central areas to start the plays when passing out from the back (Hull) •84m Coyle to LB, Drameh on at RB (Hull) •86m Piroe to CF, Rothwell on at CAM (Leeds)
Interchanges •27m-32m Gnonto and Salomon swapped over for a spell bookended by Hull set-pieces; a corner and a free-kick in midfield (Leeds)
-Koleosho
18
1■■Humphreys 90+8
Overview
A frustrating first league defeat with Leeds dominating
possession but creating little threat, especially in the final
quarter of the game. The only goal was conceded from an
attacking corner; Koleosho breaking from deep in his own half
after a slip by Solomon.
Tactics •64m Anthony to RW, Sarmiento on at LW (Burnley) •73m Brownhill to CAM, Cullen on at DM (Burnley) •86m Switch to 3-2-4-1 with back line of Byram Gruev Struijk, Tanaka on at DM, Bogle to RW, Gnonto to LW, Piroe and Ramazani behind Joseph (Leeds) 90+8m Adjustment to 4-4-1 after the sending-off with Massengo to RB (Burnley)
Captains Replacement captains after substitutions were Struijk (Leeds) and Cullen (Burnley)
Trivia Rodon and Brownhill clashed heads in the 79th minute, both requiring bandages and new shirts; the Burnley man's was unnumbered
Tactics •64m Anthony to RW, Sarmiento on at LW (Burnley) •73m Brownhill to CAM, Cullen on at DM (Burnley) •86m Switch to 3-2-4-1 with back line of Byram Gruev Struijk, Tanaka on at DM, Bogle to RW, Gnonto to LW, Piroe and Ramazani behind Joseph (Leeds) 90+8m Adjustment to 4-4-1 after the sending-off with Massengo to RB (Burnley)
Captains Replacement captains after substitutions were Struijk (Leeds) and Cullen (Burnley)
Trivia Rodon and Brownhill clashed heads in the 79th minute, both requiring bandages and new shirts; the Burnley man's was unnumbered
-Ramazani 30 Piroe 87
•●Struijk
67 (saved)
1■Bagan 23
Overview
The sad loss of Sol Bamba three weeks prior, was suitably
commemorated with his family present for this fixture between
two of his old clubs. The football itself ought to have brought
a more comfortable win for a Leeds team that enjoyed nearly 80%
possession and a man advantage for three-quarters of the game.
Missing a penalty (for the third consecutive time on this
ground) and several other chances, kept an element of doubt
until sub Joel Piroe smashed home the clincher late on. The
result kept Cardiff rooted at the bottom of the Championship and
manager Erol Bulut was relieved of his duties the following day.
Tactics •The Leeds forwards were quite flexible with the wingers often moving inside and leaving space for the full-backs to push forward •Cardiff's approach was more cautious, three men in a token press but quickly retreating into a compact defensive shape •23m After the sending-off, the back five initially became a back four with no other particular changes (Cardiff) •46m Half-time switch to 5-3-1 with Collins on at LCB, Colwill to RM, Tanner to CF (Cardiff) •79m Switch to 4-3-2 with Collins to LB, Robertson slight change to DM, Colwill to LM, Willock on at RM, Ashford joining El Ghazi in attack (Cardiff) •84m Aaronson to LW, Piroe on at CAM (Leeds) •90m Piroe to CF, Rothwell on at CAM, Tanaka on at DM (Leeds)
Interchanges •20m-23m & 37m-42m Gnonto and Ramazani swapped over (Leeds)
Captains Alnwick took the armband after Ralls was substituted (Cardiff)
Trivia •Willock ran on ahead of Ashford, even though the latter for Siopis was the first change signalled by the fourth official (Cardiff) •Fish played with a blue bandage and unnumbered shirt from the 73rd minute, following treatment for a cut head (Cardiff) •Joel Bagan was sent-off for the second time against Leeds, having picked up two yellow cards in the FA Cup tie in January 2023
Tactics •The Leeds forwards were quite flexible with the wingers often moving inside and leaving space for the full-backs to push forward •Cardiff's approach was more cautious, three men in a token press but quickly retreating into a compact defensive shape •23m After the sending-off, the back five initially became a back four with no other particular changes (Cardiff) •46m Half-time switch to 5-3-1 with Collins on at LCB, Colwill to RM, Tanner to CF (Cardiff) •79m Switch to 4-3-2 with Collins to LB, Robertson slight change to DM, Colwill to LM, Willock on at RM, Ashford joining El Ghazi in attack (Cardiff) •84m Aaronson to LW, Piroe on at CAM (Leeds) •90m Piroe to CF, Rothwell on at CAM, Tanaka on at DM (Leeds)
Interchanges •20m-23m & 37m-42m Gnonto and Ramazani swapped over (Leeds)
Captains Alnwick took the armband after Ralls was substituted (Cardiff)
Trivia •Willock ran on ahead of Ashford, even though the latter for Siopis was the first change signalled by the fourth official (Cardiff) •Fish played with a blue bandage and unnumbered shirt from the 73rd minute, following treatment for a cut head (Cardiff) •Joel Bagan was sent-off for the second time against Leeds, having picked up two yellow cards in the FA Cup tie in January 2023
-Gnonto 16 Bogle 49
Piroe 79
Piroe 79
Overview
A surprisingly comfortable win with well-worked goals and a
refreshing willingness to shoot from around the edge of the box.
The only downside was a knee injury to Ethan Ampadu that it was
later confirmed, would likely sideline the United skipper for
the remainder of 2024.
Tactics •60m Latibeaudiere to DM, van Ewijk to RB, Sakamoto on at RW (Coventry) •70m Aaronson to LW, Piroe on at CAM (Leeds) •82m Piroe to CF, Rothwell on at CAM (Leeds)
Interchanges •13m-16m, 28m-31m & 41m-45+1m Gnonto and Ramazani swapped over, the first of these spells culminating in the opening goal (Leeds)
Captains Replacement captains after substitutions were Struijk (Leeds) and Latibeaudiere (Coventry)
Trivia •Ramazani (Leeds) used a break in play in the 20th minute while the Coventry goalkeeper received treatment, to change his boots from a fluo yellow pair to black ones
Tactics •60m Latibeaudiere to DM, van Ewijk to RB, Sakamoto on at RW (Coventry) •70m Aaronson to LW, Piroe on at CAM (Leeds) •82m Piroe to CF, Rothwell on at CAM (Leeds)
Interchanges •13m-16m, 28m-31m & 41m-45+1m Gnonto and Ramazani swapped over, the first of these spells culminating in the opening goal (Leeds)
Captains Replacement captains after substitutions were Struijk (Leeds) and Latibeaudiere (Coventry)
Trivia •Ramazani (Leeds) used a break in play in the 20th minute while the Coventry goalkeeper received treatment, to change his boots from a fluo yellow pair to black ones
-Ramazani 60
Sargent 15p
Sargent 15p
•●Sargent
15
Overview
Leeds suffered a serious knee injury for the second game
running, this time to Ilia Gruev in an inocuous-looking
collision in the move that led to Norwich's penalty. Forced to
implement a new midfield combination of Rothwell and Taneka,
there was much to be encouraged about from battling back to take
a well-earned point at Carrow Road. However the loss of
attacking momentum when substitutions were made in the final
quarter, suggested squad depth could be a concern for the season
ahead.
Tactics •46m Doyle to LCB, Fisher to LB, Stacey on at RB (Norwich) •71m Aaronson to LW, Piroe on at CAM (Leeds)
Discipline Daniel Farke was shown a yellow card in the 85th minute (Leeds)
Tactics •46m Doyle to LCB, Fisher to LB, Stacey on at RB (Norwich) •71m Aaronson to LW, Piroe on at CAM (Leeds)
Discipline Daniel Farke was shown a yellow card in the 85th minute (Leeds)
-Piroe 22 Júnior 56
Rigg 9 Júnior 90+7og
Rigg 9 Júnior 90+7og
Overview
Leeds looked set for an impressive victory to take them level
with their hosts at the head of the Championship, until a
horrific mistake from Meslier deep into injury time.
Tactics •Early on Sunderland were 5-4-1 out of possession, with Neil dropping back between the centre-backs; around the half-hour mark and with Leeds now controlling the game, they modified this to 4-4-1-1 with Rigg stepping forward to support the isolated Isidor •90+2m Gnonto to LW, Schmidt on at RW (Leeds)
Interchanges •65m-68m & 81m-83m Gnonto and Ramazani swapped over, both instances following Sunderland corners (Leeds)
Trivia •Ramazani (Leeds) noticeably changed his footwear at half-time, ditching his black boots for white ones
Tactics •Early on Sunderland were 5-4-1 out of possession, with Neil dropping back between the centre-backs; around the half-hour mark and with Leeds now controlling the game, they modified this to 4-4-1-1 with Rigg stepping forward to support the isolated Isidor •90+2m Gnonto to LW, Schmidt on at RW (Leeds)
Interchanges •65m-68m & 81m-83m Gnonto and Ramazani swapped over, both instances following Sunderland corners (Leeds)
Trivia •Ramazani (Leeds) noticeably changed his footwear at half-time, ditching his black boots for white ones
-Struijk 69 Joseph 90
Overview
A statement victory over previously unbeaten opponents. Pascal
Struijk had the double distinction of being the first player to
score against the Blades in seven matches and ending the ten
month wait for a Leeds corner to yield a league goal. This was
Sheffield United's first game since the tragic loss of their
former defender George Baldock, who played for the visitors in
each of the last three iterations of this fixture. Both sets of
fans paid their respects with a minute's applause before
kick-off.
Tactics •Sheffield United opted to change to a 5-3-2 formation, similar to but less progressive than the style associated with Chris Wilder in his first spell in charge •68m Ramazani to CAM, Solomon on at LW, James on at RW (Leeds) •77m Shift to 4-4-2 with Peck to LW, Rak-Sakyi on at RW, Arblaster part of double pivot with Souza, Souttar to RCB, Ahmedhodžić to LCB (Sheffield United) 79m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF (Leeds) •81m Peck to CM, Brewster on at LW (Sheffield United) •90+2m Joseph to CAM, Bamford on at CF (Leeds)
Interchanges •22m-24m & 26m-28m Short periods where Gnonto moved out to the left and Ramazani and Aaronson flexibly covered the other areas (Leeds) •30m-40m Gnonto and Ramazani swapped over for longer spell, including thirty seconds where the latter was excluded from the action following treatment (Leeds)
Tactics •Sheffield United opted to change to a 5-3-2 formation, similar to but less progressive than the style associated with Chris Wilder in his first spell in charge •68m Ramazani to CAM, Solomon on at LW, James on at RW (Leeds) •77m Shift to 4-4-2 with Peck to LW, Rak-Sakyi on at RW, Arblaster part of double pivot with Souza, Souttar to RCB, Ahmedhodžić to LCB (Sheffield United) 79m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF (Leeds) •81m Peck to CM, Brewster on at LW (Sheffield United) •90+2m Joseph to CAM, Bamford on at CF (Leeds)
Interchanges •22m-24m & 26m-28m Short periods where Gnonto moved out to the left and Ramazani and Aaronson flexibly covered the other areas (Leeds) •30m-40m Gnonto and Ramazani swapped over for longer spell, including thirty seconds where the latter was excluded from the action following treatment (Leeds)
-Ramazani 4 Aaronson
7
Baah 47
Baah 47
Overview
Leeds enjoyed their earliest 2-0 lead in a game since New Year's
Day 2002, courtesy of some suspect goalkeeping. However the
ultimate victory was far from comfortable as sloppiness in front
of goal allowed a Watford team, brimming with power and pace if
lacking a little in finesse, a route back into the contest. It
was also achieved at the cost of another injury, with Largie
Ramazani expected to be out for up to six weeks with ankle
ligament damage.
Tactics •62m Pollock to CB, Porteous on at RCB (Watford) •87m Shift to 3-4-3 with the wing-backs pushing on and forward line of Vata Doumbia Chakvetadze (Watford) •90+4m Pollock redeployed as an auxillary centre-forward (Watford)
Captains Pollock replacement when Sissoko was substituted (Watford)
Discipline Head Coach Tom Cleverley was shown a yellow card in the 56th minute for sarcastic applause (Watford)
Tactics •62m Pollock to CB, Porteous on at RCB (Watford) •87m Shift to 3-4-3 with the wing-backs pushing on and forward line of Vata Doumbia Chakvetadze (Watford) •90+4m Pollock redeployed as an auxillary centre-forward (Watford)
Captains Pollock replacement when Sissoko was substituted (Watford)
Discipline Head Coach Tom Cleverley was shown a yellow card in the 56th minute for sarcastic applause (Watford)
Overview
Leeds had the better of a largely forgettable game but had to
settle for a point. Robins' Coach Liam Manning returned to the
touchline for the first time since the death of his infant son,
Theo, who was remembered before kick-off by a "Fly High" mosaic
of banners held up by home fans in the Dolman and South Stands.
Tactics •35m Sykes to LB, Tanner to RB, Vyner to RCB, Naismith on at CB (Bristol City) •59m Slight change to 5-3-2 with a midfield of Knight Bird Earthy, Hirakawa in a support striker role (Bristol City) •70m Gnonto to RW, Solomon on at LW (Leeds) •78m More of a genuine two up-front with Mayulu joining Armstrong (Bristol City) •85m Aaronson to RW, Joseph to CAM, Bamford on at CF (Leeds)
Interchanges •18m-24m & 30m-34m James and Gnonto swapped over (Leeds)
Tactics •35m Sykes to LB, Tanner to RB, Vyner to RCB, Naismith on at CB (Bristol City) •59m Slight change to 5-3-2 with a midfield of Knight Bird Earthy, Hirakawa in a support striker role (Bristol City) •70m Gnonto to RW, Solomon on at LW (Leeds) •78m More of a genuine two up-front with Mayulu joining Armstrong (Bristol City) •85m Aaronson to RW, Joseph to CAM, Bamford on at CF (Leeds)
Interchanges •18m-24m & 30m-34m James and Gnonto swapped over (Leeds)
-James 30 Piroe 33
Aaronson 38
Aaronson 38
Overview
Leeds settled this game against an ultra-defensive Plymouth, set
up 6-3-1 out of possession, with a three goal blast before
half-time. This granted Daniel Farke the opportunity to give
debuts to a trio of players in the second period and to
generally manage minutes ahead of another busy week of
Championship football.
Tactics •46m Shift to 3-4-1-2 with back line of Pálsson Szűcs Pleguezuelo, Mumba to LWB, Sorinola to RWB, Roberts to CAM, Gray on as an additional striker (Plymouth) •66m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF, Gnonto to RW, Solomon on at LW (Leeds) •69m Shift to 3-4-2-1 with Bundu to IL, Finn on at IR and the pair dropping into the wide midfield roles when this became 5-4-1 out of possession (Plymouth)
Tactics •46m Shift to 3-4-1-2 with back line of Pálsson Szűcs Pleguezuelo, Mumba to LWB, Sorinola to RWB, Roberts to CAM, Gray on as an additional striker (Plymouth) •66m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF, Gnonto to RW, Solomon on at LW (Leeds) •69m Shift to 3-4-2-1 with Bundu to IL, Finn on at IR and the pair dropping into the wide midfield roles when this became 5-4-1 out of possession (Plymouth)
-Tanganga
40
Overview
Leeds dominated this game but their threat petered out after
half-time and it became increasingly apparent that a basic set
piece concession would condemn them to a first away defeat of
the season.
Tactics •62m Honeyman to LW, Wintle to CAM, de Norre on at DM (Millwall) •72m Slight shift to 4-1-4-1 with Gnonto to CAM, Solomon on at LW, Aaronson operating slightly deeper but Tanaka a lone pivot (Leeds) •81m More radical change to 3-1-4-2 with back three of Rodon Struijk Júnior, Piroe to CAM alongside Aaronson, Bamford and Joseph on as dual strikers (Leeds) •90+2m Shift to 5-4-1 with Hutchinson on as the central CB (Millwall)
Discipline •Júnior Firpo received a retrospective three match ban for an alledged headbutt on Millwall defender Dan McNamara in the 95th minute that had not been seen by the match officials
Tactics •62m Honeyman to LW, Wintle to CAM, de Norre on at DM (Millwall) •72m Slight shift to 4-1-4-1 with Gnonto to CAM, Solomon on at LW, Aaronson operating slightly deeper but Tanaka a lone pivot (Leeds) •81m More radical change to 3-1-4-2 with back three of Rodon Struijk Júnior, Piroe to CAM alongside Aaronson, Bamford and Joseph on as dual strikers (Leeds) •90+2m Shift to 5-4-1 with Hutchinson on as the central CB (Millwall)
Discipline •Júnior Firpo received a retrospective three match ban for an alledged headbutt on Millwall defender Dan McNamara in the 95th minute that had not been seen by the match officials
-Bogle 19 Piroe 90+5
Overview
A game where Leeds struggled to turn domination into big
chances, keeping their supporters on tenterhooks until the fifth
minute of injury-time.
Tactics •66m Ashby to LWB, Saito to LW, Bennie on at RWB (QPR) •80m Gnonto to LW, James to RW (Leeds) •81m Shift to 4-2-3-1 with Dunne to RB, Bennie to LB, Field to DM, Morrison on at LCB, Saito to CAM, Lloyd on at LW (QPR)
Tactics •66m Ashby to LWB, Saito to LW, Bennie on at RWB (QPR) •80m Gnonto to LW, James to RW (Leeds) •81m Shift to 4-2-3-1 with Dunne to RB, Bennie to LB, Field to DM, Morrison on at LCB, Saito to CAM, Lloyd on at LW (QPR)
-Solomon 20, 73
Cabango 55og
Gnonto 90+1
Darling 8 Cullen 45+3
Bianchini 90
Cabango 55og
Gnonto 90+1
Darling 8 Cullen 45+3
Bianchini 90
Overview
A refreshingly open game which looked set to finish in a draw
when Swansea equalised in the last minute, only for Gnonto to
reply immmediately with the winner.
Tactics •26m Peart-Harris and Ronald swapped (Swansea) •75m Cullen to CAM, Fulton to DM, Bianchini on at CF (Swansea) •90+5m Shift to 5-4-1 with Aaronson to RW, Rodon to CB, Debayo on at RCB (Leeds)
Interchanges •27m Very brief swap when James dribbled the ball out of defence on the left and Solomon edged out towards the right to balance (Leeds)
Tactics •26m Peart-Harris and Ronald swapped (Swansea) •75m Cullen to CAM, Fulton to DM, Bianchini on at CF (Swansea) •90+5m Shift to 5-4-1 with Aaronson to RW, Rodon to CB, Debayo on at RCB (Leeds)
Interchanges •27m Very brief swap when James dribbled the ball out of defence on the left and Solomon edged out towards the right to balance (Leeds)
-Byram 10 Piroe 45+1
James 81
James 81
Overview
Leeds returned to the top of the table with an efficient take
down of Rob Edwards' struggling side.
Tactics •74m Clark to DM, Baptiste on at LCM (Luton)
Captains Clark was replacement captain after Morris was substituted (Luton)
Tactics •74m Clark to DM, Baptiste on at LCM (Luton)
Captains Clark was replacement captain after Morris was substituted (Luton)
- Cantwell
22p
•●Cantwell
22
Overview
John Eustace recorded his third 1-0 win over Farke's Leeds, who
turned in their most unconvincing performance of the league
campaign to date. They were left to rue Gnonto's failure to
punish a keeper distribution ricket early on, for no better
scoring chance would be created despite enjoying 72% possession.
Tactics •82m Shift to 4-1-3-2 with Tanaka a lone pivot, Joseph on to play alongside Bamford (Leeds) •90+1m Shift to 5-4-1 with Pickering tucking inside at LCB, Hedges on at LB (Blackburn)
Interchanges •28m-45m James and Gnonto swapped over (Leeds)
Trivia •Solomon entered the pitch ahead of Ramazani, even though his was the last of the three substitutions signalled; Ramazani made to pause while Gnonto exited behind the goal Leeds were attacking
Tactics •82m Shift to 4-1-3-2 with Tanaka a lone pivot, Joseph on to play alongside Bamford (Leeds) •90+1m Shift to 5-4-1 with Pickering tucking inside at LCB, Hedges on at LB (Blackburn)
Interchanges •28m-45m James and Gnonto swapped over (Leeds)
Trivia •Solomon entered the pitch ahead of Ramazani, even though his was the last of the three substitutions signalled; Ramazani made to pause while Gnonto exited behind the goal Leeds were attacking
-Rodon 39 Wöber 44
Overview
Unlikely scorers broke Derby's resistance towards the end of the
first half and though the killer third goal failed to
materialise, the outcome rarely looked in doubt thereafter.
Tactics •65m Shift to 3-4-2-1 with Harness and Thompson playing narrow behind the striker, the full-backs pushing further forward and Goudmijn on at DM (Derby) •68m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF (Leeds)
Interchanges •19m-31m, 38m-ht, 54m-56m & 60m-61m Jackson and Mendez-Laing swapped over, the latter two instances being situational after defending Leeds right-wing corners (Derby)
Captains •Cashin replacement captain when Mendez-Laing was substituted (Derby)
Tactics •65m Shift to 3-4-2-1 with Harness and Thompson playing narrow behind the striker, the full-backs pushing further forward and Goudmijn on at DM (Derby) •68m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF (Leeds)
Interchanges •19m-31m, 38m-ht, 54m-56m & 60m-61m Jackson and Mendez-Laing swapped over, the latter two instances being situational after defending Leeds right-wing corners (Derby)
Captains •Cashin replacement captain when Mendez-Laing was substituted (Derby)
-Gnonto 14 James 74
Aaronson 90+2
Wöber 54og
Aaronson 90+2
Wöber 54og
Overview
Leeds were good value for their half-time lead but the second
period was more back and forth. Thus there was considerable
relief wrapped up with the joy of the late goals that clinched
an eighth home win in succession.
Tactics •69m Piroe on at CF, Solomon on at LW - the reverse of the players they officially replaced (Leeds)
Interchanges •32m-34m James and Gnonto temporarily swapped over after the former chased over to the left-back position to dispossess Doak (Leeds)
Captains •Ampadu took over as captain upon making his return to action as a late sub in an unfamiliar right-back role (Leeds)
Trivia •Middlesbrough made both their substitutions in the same break of play, the second something of an afterthought after a delay for attention to an ankle injury suffered by Leeds' Rothwell
Tactics •69m Piroe on at CF, Solomon on at LW - the reverse of the players they officially replaced (Leeds)
Interchanges •32m-34m James and Gnonto temporarily swapped over after the former chased over to the left-back position to dispossess Doak (Leeds)
Captains •Ampadu took over as captain upon making his return to action as a late sub in an unfamiliar right-back role (Leeds)
Trivia •Middlesbrough made both their substitutions in the same break of play, the second something of an afterthought after a delay for attention to an ankle injury suffered by Leeds' Rothwell
-Whatmough 90+3og
Potts 23
Potts 23
Overview
Leeds tendency for slow starts away from home again proved
costly, albeit a point was rescued at the death. A major talking
point was the referee's leniency in sparing home skipper Ben
Whiteman a second yellow card for a robust challenge on Bogle.
Tactics •65m Piroe to CAM, Bamford on at CF (Leeds) •75m Riis to CF, Þórðarson to CAM, Ledson on at DM (Preston) •77m Shift to 4-1-4-1 with Ramazani moving inside to play as a CAM, Solomon on at LW (Leeds) •82m Shift to 3-1-4-2 with Rodon to CB, Ampadu on at RCB, Joseph on at CF (Leeds) •83m Shift to 5-3-2 with Holmes as a second striker, midfield of McCann-Ledson-Þórðarson and Whatmough on at CB (Preston)
Interchanges •15m-18m & 29m-35m James and Gnonto swapped over (Leeds)
Captains •The replacement captain for Whiteman was initially McCann but he passed the armband on when Ledson entered the action (Preston) •Ampadu again took over as captain when he was brought on as a late substitute (Leeds)
Discipline •Leeds Manager Daniel Farke and a Preston coach, Peter Murphy, were yellow carded in the 38th minute as tempers frayed after the Whiteman controversy
Tactics •65m Piroe to CAM, Bamford on at CF (Leeds) •75m Riis to CF, Þórðarson to CAM, Ledson on at DM (Preston) •77m Shift to 4-1-4-1 with Ramazani moving inside to play as a CAM, Solomon on at LW (Leeds) •82m Shift to 3-1-4-2 with Rodon to CB, Ampadu on at RCB, Joseph on at CF (Leeds) •83m Shift to 5-3-2 with Holmes as a second striker, midfield of McCann-Ledson-Þórðarson and Whatmough on at CB (Preston)
Interchanges •15m-18m & 29m-35m James and Gnonto swapped over (Leeds)
Captains •The replacement captain for Whiteman was initially McCann but he passed the armband on when Ledson entered the action (Preston) •Ampadu again took over as captain when he was brought on as a late substitute (Leeds)
Discipline •Leeds Manager Daniel Farke and a Preston coach, Peter Murphy, were yellow carded in the 38th minute as tempers frayed after the Whiteman controversy
-James 9 Bogle 57
Aaronson 67 Solomon 73
Aaronson 67 Solomon 73
Overview
As comfortable a win over managerless Oxford as anyone could
have predicted. The outcome rarely looked in doubt despite
Farke's old Norwich charge, Przemysław Płacheta, squandering a
massive chance to level at 1-0.
Tactics •62m Shift to 4-2-3-1 with Brannagan alongside Vaulks at DM, Goodrham to LW, Rodrigues on at CAM (Oxford) •83m Ampadu to DM, Guilavogui on at LCB (Leeds)
Trivia •Although Gnonto was kept waiting while Solomon left the pitch at the triple substitution, he did officially and positionally replace Aaronson (Leeds)
Tactics •62m Shift to 4-2-3-1 with Brannagan alongside Vaulks at DM, Goodrham to LW, Rodrigues on at CAM (Oxford) •83m Ampadu to DM, Guilavogui on at LCB (Leeds)
Trivia •Although Gnonto was kept waiting while Solomon left the pitch at the triple substitution, he did officially and positionally replace Aaronson (Leeds)
-Piroe 42, 63
Overview
Although Stoke missed big chances in the 2nd and 60th minutes,
otherwise this was a controlled performance which perhaps ought
to have yielded a more comfortable margin of victory for Leeds.
At the final whistle, loud boos from the home fans pierced the
fog and Narcís Pèlach's brief reign as Head Coach was terminated
the following day.
Tactics •46m Phillips to LCB, Rose on at CB (Stoke) •56m Moran to CM, Koumas to RM, Bae on at LM (Stoke) •66m Shift to 4-4-2 with Gallagher joining Cannon up-front (Stoke)
Captains •Wilmot became skipper when Gibson had to be withdrawn at half-time but Rose took over when the replacement was himself subbed (Stoke)
Tactics •46m Phillips to LCB, Rose on at CB (Stoke) •56m Moran to CM, Koumas to RM, Bae on at LM (Stoke) •66m Shift to 4-4-2 with Gallagher joining Cannon up-front (Stoke)
Captains •Wilmot became skipper when Gibson had to be withdrawn at half-time but Rose took over when the replacement was himself subbed (Stoke)
-Aaronson 79
Overview
A hard-fought win that may have been more comfortable had Joseph
and Aaronson been on target with big chances in a first half
where Derby were clearly content to defend in numbers. They came
out of their shell more after the interval and it became more
back and forth before a team goal of supreme quality, finally
provided a breakthrough in United's favour. After camping in the
opposition half for nearly a minute, twelve clean passes were
strung together to play in Aaronson to steer the ball beyond the
previously impregnable Zetterstöm.
Tactics •Interesting set-up, noticeably morphing to 5-4-1 out of possession with Jackson as LWB, Harness at LM and Yates often at RM to allow Mendez-Laing to step inside to be the focal point of the press (Derby) •86m Chirewa to DM, Blackett-Taylor to LW, Barkhuizen to RW but narrower with Wilson on the overlap, Brown on at CF with Collins in the hole (Derby) •89m Piroe to CAM, Bamford on at CF (Leeds)
Interchanges •8m-11m & 64m-67m Mendez-Laing and Jackson swapped, the first occasion as a result of positions adopted when defending a Leeds LW corner (Derby) •13m-15m & 35m-37m Gnonto and Ramazani swapped, the earlier instance arising from the latter taking a corner on the right (Leeds)
Captains •Nelson took over as captain when Mendez-Laing was withdrawn (Derby)
Tactics •Interesting set-up, noticeably morphing to 5-4-1 out of possession with Jackson as LWB, Harness at LM and Yates often at RM to allow Mendez-Laing to step inside to be the focal point of the press (Derby) •86m Chirewa to DM, Blackett-Taylor to LW, Barkhuizen to RW but narrower with Wilson on the overlap, Brown on at CF with Collins in the hole (Derby) •89m Piroe to CAM, Bamford on at CF (Leeds)
Interchanges •8m-11m & 64m-67m Mendez-Laing and Jackson swapped, the first occasion as a result of positions adopted when defending a Leeds LW corner (Derby) •13m-15m & 35m-37m Gnonto and Ramazani swapped, the earlier instance arising from the latter taking a corner on the right (Leeds)
Captains •Nelson took over as captain when Mendez-Laing was withdrawn (Derby)
-Struijk 88p
Batth 90
Batth 90
•●Struijk
88
Overview
The New Year's Day fare was low on entertainment value and
seemingly headed for a goalless draw, until Pascal Struijk
calmly converted a late penalty. That brought hopes of United
extending their lead at the top of the Championship to five
points only for Blackburn to respond swiftly, scrambling an
equaliser from a corner. Although the referee deserves credit
for adding ten minutes injury-time, which enraged Rovers boss
John Eustace, his failure to deal with time wasting during the
game was underlined by the farce of booking the visitors' keeper
in the 101st minute.
Tactics •69m Shift to 4-1-3-2 with Aaronson to LW but operating narrow to allow Wöber to overlap so as to supply left-footed crosses to the front two of Bamford and Joseph, Gnonto on at CAM (Leeds) •81m Shift to 5-4-1 with Brittain to RCB, Hyam slight change to CB, Rankin-Costello on at RWB, Cozier-Duberry on at RW (Blackburn)
Interchanges •23m-25m Bogle and Byram temporarily swapped over after defending a Blackburn free-kick and in the counter attack, James and Solomon similarly switched flanks as a result of lateral runs made (Leeds)
Captains •Club Captain Ampadu immediately took the armband from Struijk when subbing on for the injured Bogle; his predecessor, Liam Cooper, had been on the pitch at half-time as Guest of Honour (Leeds)
Discipline •Weimann's booking occurred after he had been substituted and was in relation to his entering the Leeds technical area in celebrating Batth's goal; Eustace also appeared to pick up a yellow card in the 98th minute for something he said to 4th Official Tom Nield (Blackburn)
Tactics •69m Shift to 4-1-3-2 with Aaronson to LW but operating narrow to allow Wöber to overlap so as to supply left-footed crosses to the front two of Bamford and Joseph, Gnonto on at CAM (Leeds) •81m Shift to 5-4-1 with Brittain to RCB, Hyam slight change to CB, Rankin-Costello on at RWB, Cozier-Duberry on at RW (Blackburn)
Interchanges •23m-25m Bogle and Byram temporarily swapped over after defending a Blackburn free-kick and in the counter attack, James and Solomon similarly switched flanks as a result of lateral runs made (Leeds)
Captains •Club Captain Ampadu immediately took the armband from Struijk when subbing on for the injured Bogle; his predecessor, Liam Cooper, had been on the pitch at half-time as Guest of Honour (Leeds)
Discipline •Weimann's booking occurred after he had been substituted and was in relation to his entering the Leeds technical area in celebrating Batth's goal; Eustace also appeared to pick up a yellow card in the 98th minute for something he said to 4th Official Tom Nield (Blackburn)
-Tanaka 46 James 62
Piroe 72
Kamara 5, 89
João Pedro 81
Piroe 72
Kamara 5, 89
João Pedro 81
Overview
A desperately frustrating two points dropped after Ao Tanaka's
first Leeds goal had appeared to be the catalyst for a
successful turnaround of Hull's half-time advantage. Tanaka's
curling strike from the corner of the box was the quality moment
on an afternoon blighted by defensive errors from both sides.
Sadly Ilan Meslier's position again came under scrutiny, in
particular for his part in handing the Tigers a route back into
the game at 3-1 down. He opted to pat down a looping header
rather than push it over the bar and was helpless as João Pedro
seized upon the loose ball.
Tactics •90+3m Shift to 5-2-3 with Simons slight change to LCM, Jones slight change to CB, Burns on at RCB (Hull)
Tactics •90+3m Shift to 5-2-3 with Simons slight change to LCM, Jones slight change to CB, Burns on at RCB (Hull)
-3rd
Round
Ramazani 59
Ramazani 59
Overview
Leeds did enough to progress, just, but familiar failings were
again on show in the final third. Harrogate frequently pulled
everyone back behind the ball and resolutely defended the width
of their penalty area, aided by a lack of pace and precision in
United's passing. The League Two side might even have been
awarded an early penalty which could have made for a very long
evening in every sense, with tournament rules now stipulating
extra-time and penalties to decide ties rather than replays.
Tactics •51m Solomon to LW, Ramazani to CAM (Leeds) •65m Guilavogui to LCB, Rodon on at RCB (Leeds) •71m March to CF, Folarin on at LW (Harrogate) •77m Ramazani to LW, Gnonto to CAM, James on at RW (Leeds) •83m Shift to 4-4-2 with Moon slight change to LCB, Burrell to LB, Folarin to CF, Duke-McKenna on at LW (Harrogate)
Interchanges •42m-45m Solomon and Ramazani swapped in a preview of the later tactical change (Leeds)
Trivia •Ramazani (Leeds) changed footwesr at half-time, replacing his pink boots with predominantly black ones
Tactics •51m Solomon to LW, Ramazani to CAM (Leeds) •65m Guilavogui to LCB, Rodon on at RCB (Leeds) •71m March to CF, Folarin on at LW (Harrogate) •77m Ramazani to LW, Gnonto to CAM, James on at RW (Leeds) •83m Shift to 4-4-2 with Moon slight change to LCB, Burrell to LB, Folarin to CF, Duke-McKenna on at LW (Harrogate)
Interchanges •42m-45m Solomon and Ramazani swapped in a preview of the later tactical change (Leeds)
Trivia •Ramazani (Leeds) changed footwesr at half-time, replacing his pink boots with predominantly black ones
-Solomon 3 Ramazani
88
Tanaka 90+6
Tanaka 90+6
Overview
Buoyed by an early goal, Leeds were on top for most of the game
but unable to make the points safe until late in the
proceedings. A well-organised Wednesday enjoyed spells of
possession but their main threat came from set pieces, where
United again looked vulnerable.
Tactics •17m Shift to 5-2-3 with S.Charles to RCB, Ihiekwe to CB (Sheffield Wednesday) •54m S.Charles to CM, Ihiekwe to RCB, Bernard to CB, M.Lowe to LCB, Johnson on at LWB (Sheffield Wednesday) •70m Valery to RCB, Valentín on at RWB (Sheffield Wednesday) •90m Shift to 4-1-4-1 with Guilavogui on at DM, behind both Tanaka and Gruev (Leeds)
Interchanges •45+1m Musaba and Gassama swapped over at the end of the half after the latter chased the ball down the right, following the clearance of a Leeds corner (Sheffield Wednesday)
Tactics •17m Shift to 5-2-3 with S.Charles to RCB, Ihiekwe to CB (Sheffield Wednesday) •54m S.Charles to CM, Ihiekwe to RCB, Bernard to CB, M.Lowe to LCB, Johnson on at LWB (Sheffield Wednesday) •70m Valery to RCB, Valentín on at RWB (Sheffield Wednesday) •90m Shift to 4-1-4-1 with Guilavogui on at DM, behind both Tanaka and Gruev (Leeds)
Interchanges •45+1m Musaba and Gassama swapped over at the end of the half after the latter chased the ball down the right, following the clearance of a Leeds corner (Sheffield Wednesday)
-Solomon 1 James 65
Overview
An opening goal after just 33 seconds, followed by a long wait
to kill the game off. The incident where it appeared Ao Tanaka
might receive a second yellow card, provided the most anxious
moment of the evening and hastened the unusually early recourse
to substitutes by Daniel Farke.
Tactics •72m Shift to 4-2-3-1 with Marcondes to DM, Crnac to CAM, Dobbin to RW, Myles on at LW (Norwich) •90m Stacey to RW, Hills on at RB (Norwich)
Interchanges •19m-22m James and Solomon swapped after a right-wing corner where the latter had made moves to offer himself as a short option for the taker, Rothwell (Leeds) 38m-39m Bogle and Byram briefly swapped after the former, when covering on halfway as the ball was recycled after an attacking corner, passed it back to Meslier and moved left to receive a return - though the keeper opted to go right to Rodon (Leeds)
Tactics •72m Shift to 4-2-3-1 with Marcondes to DM, Crnac to CAM, Dobbin to RW, Myles on at LW (Norwich) •90m Stacey to RW, Hills on at RB (Norwich)
Interchanges •19m-22m James and Solomon swapped after a right-wing corner where the latter had made moves to offer himself as a short option for the taker, Rothwell (Leeds) 38m-39m Bogle and Byram briefly swapped after the former, when covering on halfway as the ball was recycled after an attacking corner, passed it back to Meslier and moved left to receive a return - though the keeper opted to go right to Rodon (Leeds)
Overview
One shot on target in the whole game, Trafford tipping over from
Dan James in the 89th minute, tells a story of two teams content
to take a point and move on to perceived easier battles.
Captains •Cullen replacement captain when Brownhill was withdrawn near the end (Burnley)
Captains •Cullen replacement captain when Brownhill was withdrawn near the end (Burnley)
-Aaronson 6 Solomon
13
James 50 Piroe 65p, 90+5
Gnonto 67 Joseph 88
James 50 Piroe 65p, 90+5
Gnonto 67 Joseph 88
•●Piroe
65
Overview
Leeds hit seven in a competitive fixture for the first time
since the Revie team's iconic destruction of Southampton in
March 1972. To their credit, Cardiff came to make a game of it
with a high press but left huge swathes of space behind their
back line that Dan James exploited ruthlessly in setting up the
first two goals. Though they tweaked their formation and
approach to tighten things up, it was at the cost of any sort of
ability to retain possession and the weight of pressure
eventually told. Manager Omer Riza, starting a three match
touchline ban arising from January's explosive South Wales
derby, shuffled his defensive personnel with regularity in the
second half. However the instructions filtering down from the
stands only seemed to add to the confusion on the pitch. Júnior
often found himself unmarked and the attack-minded full-back
claimed three assists in what became a joyous romp at the Kop
End.
Tactics •24m Shift to 5-4-1 with Goutas slight change to CB, Chambers to RCB, Robertson to CM (Cardiff) •56m Shift to 5-3-2 with midfield of Ashford Robertson Ralls, Salech on as a second striker (Cardiff) •68m slightly tighter midfield shape with Rinomhota to DM, Mannsverk on at mainly RM, Robertson to mainly LM, Ng on at RWB, Robinson and Salech playing as a genuine two up-front (Cardiff) •71m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF (Leeds) •78m Ampadu to DM, Struijk on at LCB (Leeds) •81m Bagan to LWB, Fish on at LCB (Cardiff)
Interchanges •26m-27m Roden and Ampadu swapped after the latter followed Robinson into midfield, fouled his man and then did not have time to fully recover his position before the quickly taken free-kick (Leeds) •76m-78m Gnonto and Ramazani swapped after the former drifted over to the left, the pair reverting when they were required to stay back to mark opposition players on halfway at an attacking corner (Leeds)
Captains •The armband passed to Alnwick when Ralls was substituted (Cardiff)
Tactics •24m Shift to 5-4-1 with Goutas slight change to CB, Chambers to RCB, Robertson to CM (Cardiff) •56m Shift to 5-3-2 with midfield of Ashford Robertson Ralls, Salech on as a second striker (Cardiff) •68m slightly tighter midfield shape with Rinomhota to DM, Mannsverk on at mainly RM, Robertson to mainly LM, Ng on at RWB, Robinson and Salech playing as a genuine two up-front (Cardiff) •71m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF (Leeds) •78m Ampadu to DM, Struijk on at LCB (Leeds) •81m Bagan to LWB, Fish on at LCB (Cardiff)
Interchanges •26m-27m Roden and Ampadu swapped after the latter followed Robinson into midfield, fouled his man and then did not have time to fully recover his position before the quickly taken free-kick (Leeds) •76m-78m Gnonto and Ramazani swapped after the former drifted over to the left, the pair reverting when they were required to stay back to mark opposition players on halfway at an attacking corner (Leeds)
Captains •The armband passed to Alnwick when Ralls was substituted (Cardiff)
-Piroe 17 Bogle 26
Overview
A win that could easily have rivalled the Cardiff scoreline were
it not the profligacy of the Leeds attackers and some perplexing
officiating, including a late goal belatedly disallowed for
offside, seemingly at the behest of Coventry protests. Both
keepers drew credit for second half saves, Dovin atoning
somewhat for spilling the ball at the jinking feet of Bogle to
gift the second. Meanwhile Meslier kept out headers from Sims
and Thomas to negate the risk of wasted opportunities at the
other end coming back to haunt United.
Tactics •46m Shift to 3-4-3 with the wing-backs pushed further forward, Simms now a lone CF supported by Sakamoto from the right and Rudoni from the left (Coventry) •90+1m Shift to 4-3-3 with a defensive midfield trio of Ampadu Guilavogui Gruev, Struijk on at LCB (Leeds)
Interchanges •40m-44m Torp and Rudoni swapped over (Coventry)
Captains •Bidwell and then Latibeaudiere took turns as captain when changes were necessitated by substitutions (Coventry)
Trivia •In the 86th minute, "10|19" was the first substitution signalled but Gnonto took to the pitch ahead of Joseph as a result of the time it took Piroe to make his exit (Leeds)
Tactics •46m Shift to 3-4-3 with the wing-backs pushed further forward, Simms now a lone CF supported by Sakamoto from the right and Rudoni from the left (Coventry) •90+1m Shift to 4-3-3 with a defensive midfield trio of Ampadu Guilavogui Gruev, Struijk on at LCB (Leeds)
Interchanges •40m-44m Torp and Rudoni swapped over (Coventry)
Captains •Bidwell and then Latibeaudiere took turns as captain when changes were necessitated by substitutions (Coventry)
Trivia •In the 86th minute, "10|19" was the first substitution signalled but Gnonto took to the pitch ahead of Joseph as a result of the time it took Piroe to make his exit (Leeds)
- 4th Round
Azeez 30, 55
Azeez 30, 55
•●Struijk
60 (saved/post)
Overview
Ten changes proved too much a dilution of the winning formula as
Leeds exited the FA Cup in disappointing fashion. To an extent
they were unfortunate in that both strikes from Azeez, easily
the most impressive attacker on the day, were aided by
deflections. On the other hand, the penalty award was somewhat
soft and once that lifeline had been squandered, thoughts
quickly turned to preserving energies for the promotion battle.
Tactics •69m Ramazani to RW, Solomon on at LW •74m Bangura-Williams to LW, Honeyman on at RW (Millwall)
Captains •Struijk took over as captain when Ampadu was rested for the final minutes (Leeds)
Tactics •69m Ramazani to RW, Solomon on at LW •74m Bangura-Williams to LW, Honeyman on at RW (Millwall)
Captains •Struijk took over as captain when Ampadu was rested for the final minutes (Leeds)
-James 20, 28 Solomon
35
Piroe 62
Piroe 62
Overview
Watford tried to implement a positive gameplan but really needed
the first goal and very much didn't need the loose pass which
let in Dan James for the opener. That proved the platform for a
pleasingly straight-forward win on the road and set up Monday's
clash with Sunderland back at Elland Road.
Tactics •72m Kayembe to DM, Nabizada on at CAM (Watford) •80m Abankwah to LCB, Keben on at RCB (Watford)
Captains •Pollock and then Louza took over as captain after substitutions (Watford) •Ampadu handed the armband to Struijk, the man who replaced him (Leeds)
Tactics •72m Kayembe to DM, Nabizada on at CAM (Watford) •80m Abankwah to LCB, Keben on at RCB (Watford)
Captains •Pollock and then Louza took over as captain after substitutions (Watford) •Ampadu handed the armband to Struijk, the man who replaced him (Leeds)
-Struijk 78, 90+5
Isidor 32
Isidor 32
Overview
An incredible finish as Leeds dug out a last gasp win after
struggling to make any impression on a resolute Sunderland
defence for most of the evening. It had appeared increasingly
likely that Isidor's sharp turn and shot would squeeze the gap
between the the leading quartet to just four points before subs
Rothwell and Struijk combined twice to turn the game around.
Tactics •In possession and more notably in the first half, Bellingham pushed forward in the inside left channel to make the formation resemble a 4-1-4-1 (Sunderland) •71m Ampadu to DM, Struijk on at LCB (Leeds) •78m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF (Leeds)
Discipline •Manager Daniel Farke received a yellow card for failing to control himself and the wider bench, as reserves and officials spilled on to the pitch in celebrating the winning goal; being his third card of the campaign, it would lead to a one game touchline ban (Leeds)
Tactics •In possession and more notably in the first half, Bellingham pushed forward in the inside left channel to make the formation resemble a 4-1-4-1 (Sunderland) •71m Ampadu to DM, Struijk on at LCB (Leeds) •78m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF (Leeds)
Discipline •Manager Daniel Farke received a yellow card for failing to control himself and the wider bench, as reserves and officials spilled on to the pitch in celebrating the winning goal; being his third card of the campaign, it would lead to a one game touchline ban (Leeds)
-Júnior 72 Tanaka 89
Piroe 90
Meslier 14og
Piroe 90
Meslier 14og
Overview
For the second successive Monday, Leeds laboured, trailed but
ultimately prevailed in thrilling fashion against promotion
rivals. After a high-energy start, the Blades were good value
for their lead - albeit that it came from Meslier fumbling the
ball over the line after Campbell's close-range header clipped
the post. Daniel Farke, watching from the TV gantry due to a
touchline ban, witnessed his team slowly settle into the contest
with Solomon featuring prominently. The breakthrough though
would come from the opposite flank when James' cross was met
perfectly by the head of Júnior to set up an end-to-end finale,
The points were claimed for West Yorkshire after Tanaka and
Piroe scored in quick succession.
Tactics •There was much made of a tactical switch to 4-4-2, hinted at in Sky's post-match interview with Dan James but it was possibly more a reference to the pressing shape and being less easy to counter against (Leeds) •58m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF (Leeds) •59m Brereton Díaz to RW, Hamer on at LW (Sheffield United) •90+3m Cannon to CAM, Moore on at CF (Sheffield United)
Trivia •At the double substitution, the fourth official signalled that Cannon was replacing Campbell which he clearly did positionally too but OPTA recorded him as coming on for Rak-Sakyi, possibly because the winger was quicker to reach the touchline (Sheffield United)
Tactics •There was much made of a tactical switch to 4-4-2, hinted at in Sky's post-match interview with Dan James but it was possibly more a reference to the pressing shape and being less easy to counter against (Leeds) •58m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF (Leeds) •59m Brereton Díaz to RW, Hamer on at LW (Sheffield United) •90+3m Cannon to CAM, Moore on at CF (Sheffield United)
Trivia •At the double substitution, the fourth official signalled that Cannon was replacing Campbell which he clearly did positionally too but OPTA recorded him as coming on for Rak-Sakyi, possibly because the winger was quicker to reach the touchline (Sheffield United)
-Júnior 9
Furlong 39
Furlong 39
Overview
This was a bit of a comedown from the drama of the last two
games but could yet prove to be a valuable point earned. Having
failed to build on Júnior's second headed goal of the week,
Leeds were ultimately grateful for Rodon's heroic tackle on
Fellows as the Albion sub bore down on Meslier in injury-time.
Tactics •72m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF (Leeds) •Grant to LW, Dike on at CF (West Brom)
Tactics •72m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF (Leeds) •Grant to LW, Dike on at CF (West Brom)
- Bishop
61
Overview
Below par Leeds suffered a first league defeat in eighteen
matches. They struggled to retain possession in the face of
aggressive pressing on a tight pitch but even so, ought to have
taken at least a point away from the south coast. Alas Joël
Piroe passed up two big chances, the referee missed a clear
penalty when Dan James was upended and the Pompey keeper was in
inspired form. All this meant that United paid dearly for
momentary hesitation between Meslier and Rodon, allowing Colby
Bishop to reach a channel ball first and smartly clip home the
winner.
Tactics •68m Piroe to CAM Joseph on at CF (Leeds) •75m Murphy to RW, Bramall on at LW (Portsmouth) •79m Shift to 4-4-2 with Gnonto in midfield and Piroe alongside Joseph; Byram seemed to be signalling "three" as he came on and in possesion, it did resemble the 3-1-4-2 tactic employed previously by Farke in losing situations with Rothwell at DM, James and Júnior as wing-backs and Gnonto and Ramazani behind the strikers (Leeds) •90m Devlin to RB, Bishop to CAM, Yengi on at CF (Portsmouth)
Tactics •68m Piroe to CAM Joseph on at CF (Leeds) •75m Murphy to RW, Bramall on at LW (Portsmouth) •79m Shift to 4-4-2 with Gnonto in midfield and Piroe alongside Joseph; Byram seemed to be signalling "three" as he came on and in possesion, it did resemble the 3-1-4-2 tactic employed previously by Farke in losing situations with Rothwell at DM, James and Júnior as wing-backs and Gnonto and Ramazani behind the strikers (Leeds) •90m Devlin to RB, Bishop to CAM, Yengi on at CF (Portsmouth)
-Cooper 3og Tanaka 85
Overview
This felt like a familiar script for games at Elland Road this
season... an early goal, near total domination but a long wait
for the crucial second. In truth, the explosion of relief when
Tanaka picked out the top corner was more a reflection of the
stage the promotion race is entering, than the threat posed by
Millwall on the night.
Tactics •28m de Norre to CAM, Cundle to RW, Mitchell on at DM (Millwall) •62m Cundle back to CAM, Azeez to RW, Emakhu on at LW (Millwall) •79m Cundle to RW, Connolly on at CAM (Millwall)
Interchanges •89-90+1m Just prior to being substituted, James drifted over to the left prompting Gnonto to reciprocate - the Welshman promptly receiving a shove in the face from Crama, which the laissez-faire Dean Whitestone did not judge even to be a foul (Leeds)
Tactics •28m de Norre to CAM, Cundle to RW, Mitchell on at DM (Millwall) •62m Cundle back to CAM, Azeez to RW, Emakhu on at LW (Millwall) •79m Cundle to RW, Connolly on at CAM (Millwall)
Interchanges •89-90+1m Just prior to being substituted, James drifted over to the left prompting Gnonto to reciprocate - the Welshman promptly receiving a shove in the face from Crama, which the laissez-faire Dean Whitestone did not judge even to be a foul (Leeds)
-Fox 40og Bogle 51
Saitō 17 Cook 30
Saitō 17 Cook 30
1■Saitō 90+3
Overview
Two calamitous concessions left Leeds staring at a similar
humiliation as that experienced on this ground a year ago so to
an extent, this felt like a point gained. That said, the fact
that Bogle's equaliser came with forty minutes still to play
meant there was a pang of disappointment that it was not
converted to three, exacerbated when Burnley and Sheffield
United both won their games over the weekend.
Tactics •90+3m Reorganisation to 4-4-1 after the sending-off with Madsen to LW (QPR)
Captains •Dunne replacement captain when Cook was injured (QPR)
Tactics •90+3m Reorganisation to 4-4-1 after the sending-off with Madsen to LW (QPR)
Captains •Dunne replacement captain when Cook was injured (QPR)
-Aaronson 1 Gnonto 86
Darling 64 Vipotnik 90+6
Darling 64 Vipotnik 90+6
•●Tymon
14 (saved)
Overview
A poor performance but one that seemed to have been rescued by
Gnonto's 86th minute strike, only for Swansea to level in the
sixth minute of time added largely for their own time-wasting.
It should noted that Leeds' rhythm was further disrupted by the
energetic pressing of Cullen and O'Brien, such that they were
unable to build on their perfect start. It needed a fine penalty
save by Meslier to preserve the lead through to half-time, with
Rothwell the only one of his outfield colleagues to impress to
this point. There was some improvement in the second half but
unfortunately United's keeper went from hero to zero by dropping
a corner to gift the visitors their first equaliser. He might
also have done better with Vipotnik's low shot from a tight
angle, deep into stoppage time. Elland Road promptly emptied
with a pervading dread of history repeating itself.
Tactics •72m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF (Leeds) •74m Tymon to LB, Eom on at LW (Swansea) •89m Bianchini on at RW, Vipotnik on at CF (Swansea), the reverse of the players they officially replaced
Interchanges •35m-36m Bogle and Byram became swapped after a defensive corner (Leeds)
Discipline •Swansea received two off-field sanctions in injury time, Coach Alan Sheehan booked for dissent and the substituted Cullen for something he said when celebrating the equaliser •The booking of Gnonto (Leeds) was also celebration related as he his took shirt off in the aftermath of his goal
Captains •Struijk took over as captain when the returning Ampadu was withdrawn (Leeds)
Trivia •The substitutions between the 72nd and 74th minutes were in the same break in play; Swansea using a delay while their goalkeeper received treatment to replace Delcroix, who had just gone close to a second yellow card
Tactics •72m Piroe to CAM, Joseph on at CF (Leeds) •74m Tymon to LB, Eom on at LW (Swansea) •89m Bianchini on at RW, Vipotnik on at CF (Swansea), the reverse of the players they officially replaced
Interchanges •35m-36m Bogle and Byram became swapped after a defensive corner (Leeds)
Discipline •Swansea received two off-field sanctions in injury time, Coach Alan Sheehan booked for dissent and the substituted Cullen for something he said when celebrating the equaliser •The booking of Gnonto (Leeds) was also celebration related as he his took shirt off in the aftermath of his goal
Captains •Struijk took over as captain when the returning Ampadu was withdrawn (Leeds)
Trivia •The substitutions between the 72nd and 74th minutes were in the same break in play; Swansea using a delay while their goalkeeper received treatment to replace Delcroix, who had just gone close to a second yellow card
-James 28
Jones 15
Jones 15
Overview
Leeds' poor run was stretched to one win in six after a flat
display in the cramped environs of Kenilworth Road. The best
moments came from Dan James, curling in a sublime left-footed
equaliser and setting up a big chance for Solomon. With Rothwell
missing due to a calf strain, the late foot injury sustained by
Struijk was a further blow for United on the day they dropped
out of the automatic promotion places for the first time in four
months.
Tactics •49m Slight shift to 3-4-2-1 brought about by the loss of Adebayo, with Chong on at IR and Aasgaard to IL in support of Morris (Luton) •63m Piroe to CAM, Bamford on at CF (Leeds) •77m Return to 3-5-2 with Nordås on as a striker, Chong to LWB (Luton)
Interchanges •60m-64m Jones and Doughty swapped after the latter went over to take a free-kick near the right touchline (Luton)
Tactics •49m Slight shift to 3-4-2-1 brought about by the loss of Adebayo, with Chong on at IR and Aasgaard to IL in support of Morris (Luton) •63m Piroe to CAM, Bamford on at CF (Leeds) •77m Return to 3-5-2 with Nordås on as a striker, Chong to LWB (Luton)
Interchanges •60m-64m Jones and Doughty swapped after the latter went over to take a free-kick near the right touchline (Luton)
-James 2
OverviewThat
Dan James forcing the ball over the line in the second minute
would prove to be the end of the scoring, was astonishing given
the number of chances fashioned by both teams. Leeds' had
grievance over incorrect offside calls against Tanaka and
Bamford, tempered by gratitude that wild shooting by Boro's
attackers meant it did not prove costly. With both Burnley and
Sheffield United dropping points in earlier kick-offs, the
excruciating closing stages were played out in the knowledge
that a win would result in a return to the top of the table.
Afterwards Daniel Farke queried PGMOL's allocation of match
officials, noting that the linesman who flagged Tanaka had also
ruled out valid goals for Leeds in recent games against Coventry
and Millwall.
TacticsTactics •80m Shift to 4-4-2 with Whittaker to RW, Forss on at CF (Middlesbrough) •90+1m Shift to 4-3-3 with Guilavogui anchoring a trio of defensive midfielders (Leeds) •90+1m Shift to 4-1-3-2 with Forss to CAM, Fry on at CF (Middlesbrough)
Discipline •Both bookings arose from the same incident with Byram (Leeds) booked for cynically handling the ball and Morris (Middlesbrough) penalised for miming the issuing of a card
TacticsTactics •80m Shift to 4-4-2 with Whittaker to RW, Forss on at CF (Middlesbrough) •90+1m Shift to 4-3-3 with Guilavogui anchoring a trio of defensive midfielders (Leeds) •90+1m Shift to 4-1-3-2 with Forss to CAM, Fry on at CF (Middlesbrough)
Discipline •Both bookings arose from the same incident with Byram (Leeds) booked for cynically handling the ball and Morris (Middlesbrough) penalised for miming the issuing of a card
-Solomon 4 Bogle 13
Kesler-Hayden 6
Kesler-Hayden 6
Overview
Ultimately it was carnival time in the sunshine at Elland Road,
despite Leeds displaying their customary wastefulness in front
of goal to keep the tension heightened right through to the
ninety-sixth minute. The frenzy was exacerbated by news from
Plymouth, of Sheffield United falling to a third consecutive
defeat and a potentially crucial twist in the race for
promotion. With Dan James ruled out by a hamstring injury, there
was a welcome return to top form for Manor Solomon who scored
and assisted in the hectic opening exchanges.
Tactics •64m Frøkjær-Jensen to CM, Riis Jakobsen on at CF (Preston) •80m Piroe to CAM, Bamford on at CF (Leeds) •80m Shift to 4-3-1-2 with Gibson slight change to LCB, Hughes to LB, Keane on at CAM (Preston) •87m Gibson to LB, Lindsay on at LCB (Preston) •90+5m Schmidt to LW, Bogle to RW, Byram on at RB (Leeds)
Tactics •64m Frøkjær-Jensen to CM, Riis Jakobsen on at CF (Preston) •80m Piroe to CAM, Bamford on at CF (Leeds) •80m Shift to 4-3-1-2 with Gibson slight change to LCB, Hughes to LB, Keane on at CAM (Preston) •87m Gibson to LB, Lindsay on at LCB (Preston) •90+5m Schmidt to LW, Bogle to RW, Byram on at RB (Leeds)
-Solomon 33
Overview
Leeds closed in on promotion with a resolute performance in
response to earlier victories for Burnley and Sheffield United.
Most of the plaudits were bestowed on the defensive unit for
repelling a barrage of crosses and long throws, with Messrs
Rodon and Bogle also instrumental in setting up the winner for
Manor Solomon.
Tactics •80m Goodrham to RW, Mills on at LW, Romeny to CAM, Bradshaw on at CF (Oxford) •89m Shift to three at the back per Gary Rowett though in truth, the shape was difficult to discern due to the stretched nature of the game by this point; appeared to be 4-1-3-2 with Vaulks to RCB, Helik to CF, El Mizouni on at DM, Mills to RW, Romeny to LW (Oxford) *90+5m Shift to 4-3-3 similar to the end of the Middlesbrough game, with Guilavogui on as the most defensive of three DMs (Leeds)
Interchanges •74m-75m Gnonto and Solomon swapped in the lead up to an attacking corner at which point, the former was subbed (Leeds)
Tactics •80m Goodrham to RW, Mills on at LW, Romeny to CAM, Bradshaw on at CF (Oxford) •89m Shift to three at the back per Gary Rowett though in truth, the shape was difficult to discern due to the stretched nature of the game by this point; appeared to be 4-1-3-2 with Vaulks to RCB, Helik to CF, El Mizouni on at DM, Mills to RW, Romeny to LW (Oxford) *90+5m Shift to 4-3-3 similar to the end of the Middlesbrough game, with Guilavogui on as the most defensive of three DMs (Leeds)
Interchanges •74m-75m Gnonto and Solomon swapped in the lead up to an attacking corner at which point, the former was subbed (Leeds)
-Piroe 6, 8, 20, 41
Júnior 26 Gnonto 59
Júnior 26 Gnonto 59
Overview
Easter Monday witnessed an imperious performance bringing Leeds
to the brink of promotion, confirmed later by Burnley's win over
Sheffield United. Though unspectacular, the goals resulted from
aggressive pressing and teamwork that Stoke simply could not
live with. It was as well for them that long before the final
whistle, thoughts turned to the upcoming fixture at Turf Moor.
The intensity dropped such that the closing stages provided an
opportunity to give a debut to 16-year-old Harry Gray. Joël
Piroe completing a hat-trick by the 20th minute equalled Allan
Clarke's club record, set in an FA Cup tie versus Norwich in
January 1973. He then became the first United player to net four
times in a half, in so doing registering the first four goal
haul since Ross McCormack at Charlton in November 2013.
Meanwhile the last time Leeds collectively scored five by
half-time, was in the League Cup at Chester in August 2008.
Tactics •46m Shift to 5-4-1 with Gibson on at CB, Baker to RM, Koumas on at LM (Stoke)
Captains •Gibson took over the captaincy when he was one of three substitutes introduced at half-time (Stoke)
Tactics •46m Shift to 5-4-1 with Gibson on at CB, Baker to RM, Koumas on at LM (Stoke)
Captains •Gibson took over the captaincy when he was one of three substitutes introduced at half-time (Stoke)
-Tanaka 21 Gnonto 55
Ramazani 82, 90+4
Ramazani 82, 90+4
Overview
Leeds celebrated promotion, and kept themselves in pole position
in the title race, by sweeping aside a Bristol City side seeking
to consolidate their own play-off aspirations. The performance
felt like a continuation of the Stoke game and was over as a
contest once the crucial second goal arrived, courtesy of
Piroe's sublime 50 yard pass to put Gnonto through one-on-one.
On the day plans for a redeveloped stadium were unveiled, the
old Elland Road was as loud and passionate as ever - none more
so than when vocalising support for Daniel Farke, whose position
had been the subject of media speculation since the Premier
League return had been secured.
Tactics •58m Earthy to IR, Mehmeti on at IL (Bristol City)
Trivia •In the 86th minute, Joseph for Aaronson was the first substitution signalled but Guilavogui came on first because Tanaka was quicker to depart the field (Leeds)
Tactics •58m Earthy to IR, Mehmeti on at IL (Bristol City)
Trivia •In the 86th minute, Joseph for Aaronson was the first substitution signalled but Guilavogui came on first because Tanaka was quicker to depart the field (Leeds)
-Gnonto 53 Solomon
90+1
Byram 18og
Byram 18og
Overview
What a way to go to a title, with an injury time goal in the
final game. For a team effectively already relegated, Plymouth
showed great resolve to go out on a high in front of the Green
Army and their honesty could not be questioned by any Burnley
observers. The lively Bundu struck the same post twice in quick
succession and on the second occasion, the ricochet bounced back
off Byram for an own goal. That period apart, Leeds dominated
proceedings but their shooting was wayward and the Argyle keeper
was only sporadically tested. Solomon squaring for Gnonto to tap
home early in the second half, temporarily reclaimed top spot in
the live table but that changed when ex-loanee Jaidon Anthony
fired the Clarets in front. The remainder of the game at Home
Park played out with United on the front foot but unable to
create big chances and it seemed the crown of Champions would
elude them. That was until Solomon intervened again. This time
he went alone, cutting inside and striking low into the far
corner to spark pandemonium in the away section, mirrored by an
adjacent pile-on of players and substitutes. For those who
reasoned, with some justification, that the trophy was a mere
bonus to the main objective of promotion - well it certainly
felt more important in that exhilarating moment. An incredible
campaign finished with a host of new club records, chiefly 100
points and 29 league wins.
Tactics •67m Bundu to CF, Wright on at IL (Plymouth) •79m Pálsson to RCB, Katić on at CB (Plymouth) •79m Shift to 4-1-4-1 with Gnonto and Piroe at CAM, Ramazani on at RW, Bamford on at CF (Leeds) •82m Baidoo initially took up the CF position as a direct replacement for Bundu but quickly swapped with Hardie and went to IR (Plymouth) •90m Shift to 3-1-4-2 with back three of Rodon Ampadu Wöber and Joseph on as a second striker (Leeds)
Captains •Randell took over the captaincy when Edwards was withdrawn (Plymouth)
Trivia •With the Championship contenders playing 250 miles apart, the EFL did not consider it feasible to use a helicopter to transport the trophy to the relevant venue so utilised a replica, refusing to reveal where the genuine version was sent
Tactics •67m Bundu to CF, Wright on at IL (Plymouth) •79m Pálsson to RCB, Katić on at CB (Plymouth) •79m Shift to 4-1-4-1 with Gnonto and Piroe at CAM, Ramazani on at RW, Bamford on at CF (Leeds) •82m Baidoo initially took up the CF position as a direct replacement for Bundu but quickly swapped with Hardie and went to IR (Plymouth) •90m Shift to 3-1-4-2 with back three of Rodon Ampadu Wöber and Joseph on as a second striker (Leeds)
Captains •Randell took over the captaincy when Edwards was withdrawn (Plymouth)
Trivia •With the Championship contenders playing 250 miles apart, the EFL did not consider it feasible to use a helicopter to transport the trophy to the relevant venue so utilised a replica, refusing to reveal where the genuine version was sent